Epilepsy

Seizures, the hallmark of epilepsy, can disrupt various brain-coordinated processes due to abnormal brain activity. These seizures manifest in different forms, depending on the type and location of the aberrant brain activity. Common seizure symptoms include:

• Temporary Confusion: During a seizure, a person may experience a temporary state of confusion.

• Staring Spells: Some seizures may manifest as prolonged staring spells.

• Rigid Muscles: Seizures can cause muscle stiffness.

• Uncontrollable Movements: Jerky, uncontrolled movements of the arms and legs can occur during certain seizures.

• Loss of Awareness: Some seizures lead to a complete loss of awareness or consciousness.

• Psychological Signs: Emotional symptoms like fear, anxiety, or déjà vu may accompany seizures.

The specific symptoms depend on the type of seizure, and individuals with epilepsy typically experience the same type of seizure each time.

Diagnosing epilepsy involves a thorough evaluation of a patient’s symptoms and medical history. Several diagnostic tests are often employed to identify epilepsy and determine the source of seizures:

• Brain Examination: A comprehensive assessment of a patient’s behavior, motor skills, mental function, and overall health.

• Blood Test: To detect infections, genetic disorders, or other conditions related to seizures.

• Electroencephalogram (EEG): This common test records the brain’s electrical activity using electrodes attached to the scalp. It can detect variations in brain waves, even between seizures, and may involve video recording to document seizure episodes.

• High-Density EEG: An alternative to standard EEG, it places electrodes closer together, offering more precise localization of seizure-affected brain regions.

• Imaging Scans: Various scans, including Computerized Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), can reveal structural abnormalities, such as tumors, bleeding, or cysts, in the brain.

• Functional MRI (fMRI): This captures changes in blood flow during specific brain activities and helps identify critical brain regions, such as those responsible for speech and movement.

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET): This scan monitors metabolic activity in the brain, identifying regions with abnormal activity.

• Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT): If MRI and EEG do not pinpoint seizure locations, a SPECT scan may be used to create a 3D map of blood flow during seizures.

• Neuropsychological Tests: These assess speech, memory, and reasoning abilities, helping identify areas of brain damage.

By combining these diagnostic methods, doctors can accurately pinpoint the onset location and seizure type, crucial for effective treatment.

Effective treatment can significantly reduce or eliminate seizures in most epilepsy cases. Treatment options include:

• Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): These medications, prescribed in about 70% of cases, alter brain chemistry to prevent seizures. The choice of AED depends on factors like age, seizure type, and future family planning.

• Neurosurgery: Surgery may be considered if AEDs fail to control seizures and a specific brain abnormality is identified. In such cases, removing the affected brain region can lead to complete seizure cessation.

• Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): This involves implanting a device under the skin that stimulates the vagus nerve, potentially reducing the severity and frequency of seizures.

• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Similar to VNS, DBS delivers electrical shocks directly to the brain to control seizures. It is a newer and less common treatment with associated risks.

• Ketogenic Diet: A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, known as the ketogenic diet, may be recommended for children with epilepsy when AEDs are ineffective. It can help reduce seizures by altering brain chemistry.

Epilepsy treatment varies from person to person. We advise consulting with a Healwise expert for a comprehensive evaluation and an accurate diagnosis tailored to your specific condition.

Healwise provides solutions for individuals facing health challenges like Epilepsy. Our comprehensive network of specialists offers a range of advanced epilepsy treatments, including Subdural Grid and Strip Implantation, SEEG Implantation (Stereoelectroencephalography Implantation), Temporal Lobectomy, Lesionectomy, Epilepsy DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) Implantation, Epilepsy DBS Generator Replacement, VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulation) Implantation, VNS Generator Replacement, Lesionectomy, Selective And Standard Temporal Lobectomy, and Invasive Exploration using SEEG And Grid Technologies.